Hosted by photographer & filmmaker Lukas Riedl and Vallerret Co-Founder Carl van den Boom, Creative Outsiders shares untold stories of creators pushing limits in wild places. These aren’t just about landscapes or light—they’re about awe, solitude, resilience, and the spark of joy when a vision becomes real. From auroras to coastal storms and snowy forests, each episode explores what it feels like to create when everything says “go home.” Presented by Vallerret.
Site
RSS
Apple
Recent rankings
Latest chart positions across Apple Podcasts and Spotify rankings.
Shared links between episodes and podcasts
Links found in episode descriptions and other podcasts that share them.
Dave Williams: Chasing Auroras and Laughs in the Arctic
Season 1 · Episode 1
Monday, November 17, 2025 • Duration 49:41
To start things off with a bang, we’re heading north to Lofoten with travel photographer and Aurora expert Dave Williams. From a cozy fisherman’s cabin, he chats with us about how he became obsessed with winter photography… and how he once got chased by wolves at 4:30 in the morning. Yes, really. Dave is full of practical tips and hilarious “this only happens to photographers” moments.
In this episode, we dive into: • Dave’s first-ever Northern Lights moment (and why it changed everything) • How he actually predicts the Aurora without relying on dodgy apps • What life in Lofoten is really like (weather chaos, fish racks & all) • The layering system he uses to stay outside for hours (liners + photography gloves) • How to keep your camera battery alive in deep cold • Why “bad weather” usually turns into the best photography conditions • The wolf story… because yes, that really happened • Imposter syndrome and the pressure to “get the shot” • The joy of helping people see the Aurora for the first time • Cinnamon buns (because every photographer deserves a treat)
If you enjoy winter photography, dream of seeing the Aurora, or just love hearing creators talk about the weird, wild parts of their job, you’ll love this episode. It’s fun, relaxed, and full of super useful cold-weather tips.
Follow Dave Williams Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/idavewilliams YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@idavewilliams Lofoten Insight Tours: https://lofotensight.com Book: The Complete Aurora Guide (search online)
Website:https://www.photographygloves.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vallerret Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vallerret YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vallerret TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vallerret X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/vallerret Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/vallerret Newsletter:https://www.photographygloves.com (sign up at the bottom!)
Celebrating 10 Years of Radical Winter Gear built for photographers & creators who stay out longer.
Thanks for joining us for our very first episode of Vallerret’s Creative Outsiders. If you enjoyed this conversation, send it to a fellow cold-loving creator — and go chase some wild weather.
Stay warm. Stay inspired. Stay out longer. 🧤🔥
Vallerret's Creative Outsiders Trailer
Monday, November 17, 2025 • Duration 01:21
This is Vallerret’s Creative Outsiders — Radical stories from behind the lens. A podcast about the moments that change us, the places that shape us, and the creators who go where most people won’t. Join hosts Lukas Riedl and Vallerret Co-Founder Carl van den Boom as they talk with photographers, filmmakers, drone pilots, and explorers about what really happens out there — beyond the cold, beyond the frame, beyond comfort. Grab a hot drink. Settle in. And welcome to the outsiders.
Sarah Lyndsay: Emotion in the Frame & Why the Cold Is Worth It
Season 1 · Episode 2
Saturday, November 29, 2025 • Duration 44:55
Sarah Lyndsay, a Canadian fine art photographer and self-portrait artist known for her emotional imagery, storytelling, and her signature yellow dress.
Sarah shares how photography became a form of self-expression and a way to explore emotion, presence, and identity. She explains how placing herself in the frame is telling a story.
We talk about the thrill of shooting in –30°C, how sometimes you forget the cold because the moment feels magical, and why bad weather often leads to the most powerful images. She opens up about identity, pressure, and taking a break from social media, and learning to see herself not just as a photographer but as an artist.
• Why bad weather makes stronger, more emotional images • Emotion, scale & storytelling through self-portrait work • Shooting in –30°C and forgetting the cold • The yellow dress and how visual identity develops • Layering, boots, gloves & staying creative in freezing temps • Artist vs. photographer — and why the difference matters • Social media breaks & creative burnout • Fine art galleries, collectors & making work that "feels"
Pasi Salminen: Finding Creativity in Everyday Life
Season 1 · Episode 3
Saturday, December 13, 2025 • Duration 38:35
Meet Finnish legendary snowboarding photographer and longtime Vallerret friend Pasi Salminen. We discuss Pasi's extensive career in snowboarding photography, the challenges of capturing action shots in extreme conditions, and the transition from passion projects to commercial work. Pasi shares insights on maintaining creativity and positivity in a long career, the importance of collaboration with athletes, and how he manages the pressures of shooting high-stakes tricks. The conversation also touches on the unique aspects of urban photography versus powder shots, and Pasi's future aspirations in the field.
Watch the full video version on YouTube for extra visuals.
Takeaways
Pasi Salminen has been a prominent figure in snowboarding photography for decades.
Urban photography offers more creative freedom compared to powder shots.
Capturing the right moment in action photography requires preparation and quick thinking.
Maintaining a positive attitude is crucial for success in the creative industry.
Transitioning from passion projects to commercial work can be a natural evolution for photographers.
Collaboration with athletes is essential for achieving the best shots.
Dealing with extreme cold is part of the job for snowboarding photographers.
Finding inspiration in new environments helps keep creativity alive.
Pasi emphasizes the importance of enjoying the work to avoid burnout.
Safety is a top priority when shooting high-risk snowboarding tricks.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
02:30 Memorable Snowboarding Experiences
04:59 Urban vs. Powder Photography
07:14 The Art of Snowboard Photography
09:52 Managing Pressure in Photography
12:24 Transitioning to Commercial Work
14:55 Maintaining Passion in Photography
Sebastian Copeland: Alone at the Edge of the World — Ice, Instinct, and the Cost of Survival
Season 1 · Episode 5
Saturday, January 10, 2026 • Duration 01:00:07
Sebastian Copeland — polar explorer, photographer, filmmaker, and environmental advocate. With 27 polar expeditions behind him, Sebastian takes us deep into the Arctic and Antarctic, sharing what it truly means to survive, document, and bear witness at the most hostile edges of our planet.
The conversation moves from harrowing encounters with polar bears and brutal storms on sea ice to the internal journeys shaped by solitude, endurance, and responsibility. Beyond the adventure, Sebastian reflects on climate science, human resilience, and why storytelling from the extremes matters more than ever.
Key Takeaways
Extreme environments strip humans down before building them back up
Preparation and discipline are the difference between survival and failure
Polar bears are apex predators. Not symbols, but realities
The greatest dangers in the Arctic are often weather and terrain, not wildlife
Endurance is as much mental as it is physical
Photography can turn suffering into meaning and advocacy
Climate change is visible, measurable, and accelerating at the poles
Hope requires action, not distance or denial
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to Creative Outsiders 01:11 Meet Sebastian Copeland 02:24 27 Polar Expeditions & Life at the Poles 02:52 Arctic Sea Ice & Internal Breaking Points 03:42 Polar Bear Encounters Explained 08:08 Sleeping on the Ice & Bear Safety Systems 11:28 Charged by a Polar Bear — A Near-Fatal Moment 17:34 Following the Bear & Power Dynamics 20:12 What Really Kills You in the Arctic 21:39 Storms, Wind & Living Inside a Tent 25:10 Childhood, Books & Becoming a Polar Explorer 29:04 Science, Photography & Purpose 32:15 Preparation, Endurance & Mental Strength 36:12 Failure, Frostbite & Aborting a Mission 38:51 Falling Through Sea Ice 43:29 Risk, Loss & Perspective Over Time45:14 Addiction to Extremes & Reflection47:16 Photography as Memory & Meaning49:28 Climate Change, Hope & Human Responsibility55:29 Quickfire Questions & What’s Next
Joana Braga: Women Breaking Barriers in Drone Flying | Vallerret's Creative Outsiders Episode 4
Season 1 · Episode 4
Saturday, December 27, 2025 • Duration 58:23
Joana Braga, a drone pilot and designer from Portugal, now based in Iceland.Joana shares her journey into drone flying, the challenges of working in extreme weather, and her passion for capturing high-risk, high-reward visuals in extreme sports. The conversation explores mindset, preparation, representation for women in the drone industry, and Joana’s ambitions for future projects — including filming the Dakar Rally.
Key Takeaways
Prepared, confident gear use matters more than over-caution
Extreme weather adds technical and mental pressure
Mindset and preparation define successful flights
Great shots often require multiple attempts
Women still face bias in drone and action sports industries
Visibility and storytelling can shift perceptions
Extreme motorsport filming demands risk awareness
Adrenaline must be balanced with control
Chapters
00:00 Women Can Fly 00:50 Welcome to Creative Outsiders 01:10 Meet Joana Braga 01:49 Portugal to Iceland 02:13 Flying in Extreme Conditions 05:33 Fear, Nerves & Control 11:01 Getting Started With Drones 13:40 FPV, Speed & Tech Differences 17:32 Preparation & Decision Making 20:11 Motorsport & Extreme Action 23:14 Crashes, Repairs & Experience 30:02 Does Fear Ever Go Away? 34:11 Storytelling First 39:31 Design & Aviation Mindset 42:31 Women in a Male-Dominated Industry 49:39 Dream Projects & Dakar 54:21 Quickfire & What’s Next
Website: https://www.photographygloves.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vallerretFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/vallerretYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vallerretTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vallerretX: https://twitter.com/vallerretPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/vallerretNewsletter: https://www.photographygloves.comCelebrating bold flying, real risk, and creative work beyond comfort zones. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a creator who chases the shot in tough conditions.
Rachel Bigsby: When Seabirds Mean More Than Beautiful Images
Season 1 · Episode 7
Saturday, February 7, 2026 • Duration 54:46
Rachel Bigsby, seabird photographer, wildlife storyteller, and conservation advocate, joins hosts Lukas Riedl & Carl van den Boom to dive deep into the world of seabird photography. From learning seabird behavior and fieldcraft to navigating online criticism and using photography as a force for protection and awareness.
Rachel shares how a fascination with northern fulmars became a career path with no plan B. We explore the balance between capturing the shot and fully experiencing nature, why patience and observation are foundational skills in wildlife photography, and how recognizing individual birds can create a deeper, more personal connection to the wild. The conversation also touches on the realities of building a photography career, advocacy responsibilities, and how recent achievements can open new doors.
Key Takeaways
Rachel's journey into seabird photography began with a fascination for northern fulmars
Capturing the moment is important, but experiencing nature is equally vital
Finding a balance between photography and enjoying the experience is crucial
Patience is key in wildlife photography; sometimes waiting pays off
Wildlife photography can be a challenging career path with no plan B
Recognizing individual birds can create a deeper connection with nature
Advocacy for seabird conservation is a responsibility for photographers
Online criticism can be harsh, but staying true to one's passion is essential
Achievements in photography can lead to greater opportunities and recognition
Chapters
00:54 Introduction to Creative Outsiders and Guest Rachel01:43 Rachel's Journey into Seabird Photography03:46 Memorable Experiences in the Field06:23 Balancing Photography and Experience 09:22 The Importance of Observation in Wildlife Photography 12:13 The Fascination with Seabirds 15:08 The Path to Becoming a Wildlife Photographer 16:36 The Role of Patience in Wildlife Photography 26:20 Final Thoughts on Wildlife Photography27:30 The Journey of Patience and Perseverance29:00 Establishing Wildlife Photography as a Career31:22 The Importance of Passion in Photography31:55 Advocacy for Wildlife Protection36:07 Facing Online Hate and Industry Challenges40:53 Achievements and Recognition in Wildlife Photography43:08 Future Plans and Career Aspirations47:30 The Pressure of Social Media and Success51:03 Self-Compassion and Reflecting on the Journey52:27 Quickfire Questions and Personal Insights
Colby Brown: How to Turn Failure Into Your Best Photos
Season 1 · Episode 6
Saturday, January 24, 2026 • Duration 01:02:19
Colby Brown, wildlife photographer, educator, and visual storyteller, talks about the realities of photographing wildlife up close, the power of intent in shaping stronger images, and why storytelling always matters more than gear or perfection. Colby shares his journey as a self-taught photographer, how COVID-19 created space for reflection and creative growth, and what it takes to balance a life of travel with family, purpose, and long-term happiness.
Key Takeaways
Colby Brown has nearly 20 years of experience in photography
Wildlife photography offers unique and intimate experiences with animals
The emotional connection in photography is more important than the image itself
Traveling and experiencing different cultures is essential for personal growth
Intent in photography can lead to more meaningful images
Colby emphasizes the importance of storytelling in photography
Mistakes and failures are valuable learning experiences
Education and sharing knowledge is a passion for Colby
Finding a balance between work and family is crucial for happiness
COVID-19 provided a unique opportunity for reflection and growth
Chapters
01:06 Introduction to Colby Brown's Journey 03:51 Wildlife Photography: The Silverback Gorilla Experience 06:32 The Importance of Connection in Photography 09:13 Intent and Experience in Photography 11:54 The Evolution of a Photographer 14:57 Capturing Emotion Through Visual Storytelling 17:32 The Role of Adaptability in Wildlife Photography 20:28 Learning from Mistakes and Embracing Failure 23:21 The Journey of a Self-Taught Photographer 26:04 Finding Unique Perspectives in Photography 28:44 Encouragement to Explore New Directions in Photography37:34 The Importance of Insurance and Sentimental Value 39:11 Lessons Learned from Experience 40:24 The Joy of Teaching and Sharing Experiences 42:25 Transitioning from Employee to Entrepreneur44:07 Reflections on Technological Changes in Photography46:06 Navigating Family Life and Travel48:00 Bucket List Experiences and Future Aspirations51:35 Finding Value in Experiences Over Photography54:54 The Journey of Life: Embracing Ups and Downs01:01:08 Experiences Over Images: A Philosophical Perspective
Virgil Reglioni: Images Are Built, Not Found
Season 1 · Episode 8
Saturday, February 21, 2026 • Duration 01:01:28
Virgil Reglioni, polar landscape photographer and relentless Aurora chaser, joins hosts Lukas Riedl & Carl van den Boom for a deep dive into what it really takes to create images in the coldest, most breathtaking places on Earth. From pre-visualizing the shot to working with risk, logistics, and pure uncertainty, this episode is a masterclass in making “impossible” photos happen.
Virgil shares the story of being lowered into a glacier moulin — a “monster hole” that felt like a black hole with no visible bottom — and how that moment ties directly into his wider creative process: building the image in your head first, then doing the work (and taking the hits) to bring it to life. We talk about layering: layering light, landscape, scale, story, and intention. And why simplifying gear, trusting your vision, and committing to the mission can unlock a whole new level of creative output.
Key Takeaways
Pre-visualization matters: Virgil often “draws” the image in his mind before arriving on location
Some of the strongest photos come from layering: light, landscape, scale, and story working together
Extreme environments force better composition — sometimes you have no choice but to improve
Simplifying gear can reduce decision fatigue and increase creative focus in harsh conditions
Adding a human element (a silhouette) can create scale and emotional impact in vast landscapes
Creative mission ideas may sound crazy — committing to them is often the point
Teamwork and trust matter when working in technical terrain
Time is limited — choosing what you still go out to shoot defines your work
The moulin story shows some frames are earned, not found
Curiosity and persistence sit behind breakthrough images
Chapters
00:00 The “Monster Hole” (Glacier Moulin) Hook 00:58 Welcome to Creative Outsiders 01:40 Virgil’s Work: Aurora & Polar Landscapes 11:19 Entering Iceland’s Glaciers for the Frame 12:08 The Project Origin Story 14:24 Reaching the Ice Surface: Timing & Constraints 16:01 Seeing the Composition From Inside the Scene19:53 Pre-Visualizing the Image24:59 Moving Through a Frozen World27:28 Problem Solving the Shot29:26 Reading Terrain & Background Layers30:45 Layering Light & Landscape37:40 Gear Philosophy: Keeping It Simple38:54 Creativity Mindset44:09 Layering as a Creative Principle46:28 Drawing the Image Before Going There48:22 Committing to “Crazy” Ideas50:19 Learning Because You Have No Choice55:55 Creating While Life Happens61:13 Outro
Katie Orlinsky: From Conflict Zones to the Frontlines of Climate Change
Season 1 · Episode 9
Saturday, March 7, 2026 • Duration 35:04
Katie Orlinsky, conflict and environmental photographer known for documenting social issues, climate change, and life in the Arctic, joins hosts Lukas Riedl & Carl van den Boom for a conversation about storytelling, responsibility, and the evolving role of documentary photography in a rapidly changing world.
Katie shares how her work shifted from covering social issues and conflict zones to documenting the fragile beauty of the Arctic and the realities of climate change. Through her experiences photographing remote northern communities, sled dog races like the Yukon Quest, and environmental transformations unfolding across the Arctic, she reflects on the power of images to connect audiences to stories they might otherwise never encounter.
We explore the balance between beauty and urgency in visual storytelling, the ethics of documenting vulnerable communities, and the importance of building trust and human connection in documentary work. Katie also discusses the practical and emotional challenges of working in extreme environments and why responsibility and truth sit at the heart of impactful storytelling.
Key Takeaways
Katie’s journey from conflict and social issue photography to environmental storytelling in the Arctic
The Arctic offers a powerful visual window into the realities of climate change
Balancing beauty with urgency helps audiences connect emotionally to difficult topics
Ethical storytelling requires deep respect and trust with the people being photographed
Human connection is essential to meaningful documentary photography
Working in remote and extreme environments requires preparation, patience, and adaptability
Photography can act as a bridge between distant communities and global audiences
Documentary photographers carry a responsibility to tell stories truthfully and respectfully
Chapters
00:00 Cold Open — Risk in the Arctic vs Conflict Zones00:37 Welcome to Creative Outsiders01:09 Introducing Katie Orlinsky01:28 The First Question: A Moment That Changed Everything01:45 Katie’s First Trip to the Arctic02:11 Photographing the Yukon Quest Dog Sled Race04:57 Experiences in the Arctic and Their Impact09:24 Transitioning from Conflict Zones to Environmental Photography13:25 Balancing Beauty and Urgency in Storytelling17:33 Ethical Considerations in Documentary Photography31:25 Conclusion and Future Directions
Celebrating 10 Years of Winter Gear built for photographers & creators who stay out longer.
If this conversation made you feel nostalgic, send it to a fellow snow bum — and go chase some wild weather, with cameras and planks.
Stay warm. Stay inspired. Stay out longer. 🧤🔥
Follow Sebastian Copeland Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/copelandadventures/ Website: https://www.sebastiancopeland.com Fine Art: https://www.scopelandfineart.com
Celebrating endurance, responsibility, and creative work at the edge of human limits. If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who believes stories from the extremes can change how we see our planet.
Stay sharp. Stay curious. Stay out longer. 🧤🔥
Vallerret | Gloves & Apparel for Creators Behind the Lens
Celebrating patience, passion, and the photographers who use their craft to deepen our connection to the natural world. If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who believes wildlife stories can spark real care and real conservation.
Celebrating connection, storytelling, and the wild moments that shape us more than any final frame. If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who believes the greatest images aren’t just seen — they’re felt.
Celebrating the creatives who chase the shot when comfort says “stay home.” If this episode sparked something in you, share it with someone building a vision and needing that final push to commit.
Celebrating the creatives who chase the shot when comfort says “stay home.” If this episode sparked something in you, share it with someone building a vision and needing that final push to commit.
Stay sharp. Stay curious. Stay out longer. 🧤🔥
Related Shows Based on Content Similarities
Discover shows related to Vallerret's Creative Outsiders: Radical stories from behind the lens, based on actual content similarities. Explore podcasts with similar topics, themes, and formats, backed by real data.
